Hello — I’m John Dooley, a North-West based illustrator, educator, and all-round enthusiast for the absurd details of everyday life.

For over three decades I’ve been creating humorous, character-driven illustrations for magazines, publishers, and creative clients — from The Guardian and Private Eye to The Spectator, Radio Times, and Dorling Kindersley. My work tends to sit somewhere between the wry and the ridiculous — using visual storytelling, expression, and a touch of satire to make sense of the world.

Alongside my freelance practice, I’ve spent more than twenty years teaching creative and digital subjects — everything from art and design to business and IT. That experience has kept my work connected to real people, real stories, and the joy of learning something new. I’ve also led creative enrichment programmes, community workshops, and projects that use art to build confidence and connection — often in places where creativity can make the biggest difference.

Whether I’m working with an editor, a community group, or a class of curious learners, I’m interested in the same thing: how images can communicate ideas with honesty, humour, and heart.

When I’m not drawing, you’ll probably find me wandering trails, reading about economics for fun.